What Carbohydrates Can Do to Damage Your Oral Health?
Posted on 2/22/2021 by Fairmount Dental Center
Carbohydrates are necessary for the body to function, but like many things, eating too many carbs can cause a number of problems. When it comes to oral health, carbs can increase the number of cavities and other damage done to your mouth. While you cannot cut all carbs out of your diet, there are a few things you can do to control the damage they do.
How Do Carbs Affect Your Mouth?
Carbs, especially sugar, is what the bacteria in your mouth thrive on. These are typically not the good bacteria, either. They are the bacteria that eat carbs and use them to fuel the creation of acids. These acids eat through the enamel on your teeth, causing cavities. The more carbs you eat, the more fuel you are giving these bacteria.
Not All Carbs Are the Same
While carbs do fuel bacteria, some carbs are worse than others. These bad carbs include foods high in sugar, of course, but they also include what are called sticky carbs. This type of carb literally sticks to your gums, teeth, and tongue. If you do not brush it off, it will remain there until the bacteria eat it.
What Can You Do?
There are a few things you can do to limit the amount of damage carbs do to your mouth. First, learn about carbs. Look at what are sticky carbs and reduce the amount of them you eat. If you are going to have carbs, plan to have them in one sitting. This way, your mouth is only exposed to the high levels of carbs once, and you can quickly rinse or brush after you eat. In fact, it is not a bad idea to rinse after every meal. This will help the saliva in your mouth wash away any carbs stuff in your mouth. Also, please make sure you see us every six months for a regular exam and cleaning. If you have not done so recently, call us today to schedule an appointment.
Dental Blog | Dentist Salem, OR | Fairmount Dental Center Fairmount Dental Center has created this dental blog to help patients and the community. Click to learn more about dental procedures, home care and more! Fairmount Dental Center, 1524 Commercial St. SE, Salem, OR 97302-4310 + (503) 362-8364 + fairmountdentalcenter.com + 9/15/2024 + Related Terms: dentist Salem OR +
Carbohydrates are necessary for the body to function, but like many things, eating too many carbs can cause a number of problems. When it comes to oral health, carbs can increase the number of cavities and other damage done to your mouth. While you cannot cut all carbs out of your diet, there are a few things you can do to control the damage they do.
